Script of Xenoblade Chronicles 3 - Chapter 2
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The second chapter of Xenoblade Chronicles 3, Moebius, introduces more of the party's backstory and sheds light on the main villainous faction.
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Contents
Silvercoat Ethel
Noah
Stop crying, Lanz!
It won't change anything!
For now, just run!
Run with all the breath you have!
It won't change anything!
For now, just run!
Run with all the breath you have!
Eunie signals to a side passage.
Eunie
Noah! Over here!
We can go through here, and then we're out!
We can go through here, and then we're out!
Noah
All right!
Before they can make it out of the alleyway, a Levnis bars the path.
Eunie
Oh no!
Noah
Sparks...!
We almost made it...
We almost made it...
The Levnis spots them and charges up. Before it can attack, another soldier — Ethel — drops on it from above and destroys it.
Later, in a survivor's camp, Noah, Eunie, and Lanz are huddled up, looking miserable (especially Lanz). Ethel walks up, reads the room, and her face drops.
Later, in a survivor's camp, Noah, Eunie, and Lanz are huddled up, looking miserable (especially Lanz). Ethel walks up, reads the room, and her face drops.
Ethel
I'm sorry...
Noah
Huh?
Ethel
If I'd been just a bit faster,
I could have saved many more lives...
I could have saved many more lives...
Noah
Uh, who are-?
Ethel
I'm Ethel, from Colony 4.
Eunie
Silvercoat Ethel...!
She pushed her Colony, all the way to rank Silver, and in her third term at that.
She pushed her Colony, all the way to rank Silver, and in her third term at that.
Ethel
Some do call me that.
However, a person's worth isn't in their color.
It's here.
However, a person's worth isn't in their color.
It's here.
Ethel puts her hand over her heart. She then notices Noah's sword.
Ethel
Nice Blade you've got.
She walks off without another word.
In an almost-empty Amphitheater, scenes from Noah and Mio's fight against the Moebius are playing on an old-timey screen. Only one man with long grey hair watches from the audience. The screen turns off, and said Moebius enters stage left.
In an almost-empty Amphitheater, scenes from Noah and Mio's fight against the Moebius are playing on an old-timey screen. Only one man with long grey hair watches from the audience. The screen turns off, and said Moebius enters stage left.
Moebius
Wow, tough guys, eh?
It's a wild ride, this "passage of fate".
We got ourselves a nice little awakening.
It's a wild ride, this "passage of fate".
We got ourselves a nice little awakening.
A spotlight shines on a Consul on stage with a chimney-shaped helmet.
Consul
(taunting)
(taunting)
You were all talk when you left here,
but you've nothing to show for it, D.
but you've nothing to show for it, D.
D
Oh, spare me, P.
After all, I did precisely what I was meant to do.
After all, I did precisely what I was meant to do.
The Moebius transforms into two other Consuls; the one called D tall with a wide helmet, the other very short with a jester-like helmet standing behind him. P addresses an unlit spot on-stage.
Consul P
("I told you so" voice)
("I told you so" voice)
...So? About that *huge* bet of yours...
Pray tell us, who won?
Pray tell us, who won?
Where she looks, another spotlight shines on a rotund Consul with an owl-like mask, O.
Consul O
(with strange sounds of disappointment)
(with strange sounds of disappointment)
Pah...
A draw, I think.
And with two whole Colonies on the field!
We should've sallied forth in the first place. The whole thing would've been done by teatime.
A draw, I think.
And with two whole Colonies on the field!
We should've sallied forth in the first place. The whole thing would've been done by teatime.
A Consul with an aerodynamic helmet, E, is lit up and addresses P.
Consul E
It was J who insisted on it.
I'd thought that that had already been communicated.
I'd thought that that had already been communicated.
H, yet another Consul, this one with a Medusa-like mask, walks across the stage.
Consul H
(with anticipation)
(with anticipation)
In that case... I believe it's my turn next...
Consul E
(exasperated)
(exasperated)
H, I'm pretty sure you already had your kicks the other day when you wiped out Colony 8, no?
Surely the turn is mine.
Surely the turn is mine.
The grey-haired man in the audience, Z, speaks. No light shines upon him.
Z
Honestly, you make more noise than the rabble at a feast...
The others turn to him in surprise.
The Consuls
Z!
Z
...Even if you did stop its raging flow,
it will soon burst through. All it takes is the slightest fissure.
it will soon burst through. All it takes is the slightest fissure.
Two people approach Z from the aisle. Only the red lights on their armour can be clearly seen through the darkness.
Hidden man
(enunciating)
(enunciating)
And that is fate...
I've told you before, haven't I, D?
I've told you before, haven't I, D?
Consul D
(unimpressed)
(unimpressed)
Bah...
The gang's all here again.
The gang's all here again.
The hidden man looks to Z, who nods, then to an unlit part of the stage.
Hidden man
K... Will you go?
A spotlight illuminates where he looked, revealing another Consul.
Consul K
If you say I go...
I go.
I go.
K teleports away in a cloud of purple motes. The other Consuls on stage follow suit. Their spotlights turn off as they leave.
Consul Z
Well then...
Let us see how far the flow brings them this time...
Let us see how far the flow brings them this time...
Lanz
Hnnnnnaaaaaagh!
Sena
Yaaaaaagh!
Lanz
Huuuuuurgh!
Sena
Waaaaaugh!
Taion is watching.
Taion
(deeply confused)
(deeply confused)
Guys... What do you think you're doing?
Sena
(chipper)
(chipper)
Oh, Taion. Morning!
Lanz
Hey! Did we wake you?
Taion
Honestly, I'm surprised you haven't gone and woken up the whole forsaken continent.
So?
So?
Lanz stops his posing and turns to him.
Lanz
(enthusiastically)
(enthusiastically)
Oh, this?
We reckoned we might be able to do the same as what Noah and Mio did.
We reckoned we might be able to do the same as what Noah and Mio did.
Taion
You reckoned? You mean that Ouroboros thing?
Sena
(equally enthusiastically)
(equally enthusiastically)
Yeah! How badass was that?!
We thought if we pulled it off, it'd raise our chances of survival a whole bunch!
We thought if we pulled it off, it'd raise our chances of survival a whole bunch!
Taion
(derisively)
(derisively)
And you think it's that easy?
Sena
Huh? I mean...
Taion
I don't mean to burst your bubble here,
but don't you think...maybe that power's meant only for them?
but don't you think...maybe that power's meant only for them?
Sena
Yeah, but that Moebius guy... He did refer to "us"...
I just thought...
I just thought...
Taion
You thought maybe you could transform as well?
Sena nods, the wind out of her sails.
Taion
What makes you think it would be you two, anyway?
Say it is possible. It could be me and Lanz.
Say it is possible. It could be me and Lanz.
Sena
It's just...kind of a feeling.
Lanz
Yeah, just a hunch. Right?
Lanz smiles at Sena, then scowls at Taion.
Lanz
Something wrong?
Taion
(hesitating)
(hesitating)
Not at all.
Then...I guess...that leaves me with her.
Then...I guess...that leaves me with her.
He looks over at Eunie.
Taion
(sigh) I envy you, I really do.
Lanz
Aw, what're you moaning about now?
Taion
(audibly resigned)
(audibly resigned)
Let's drop it. I don't want us bickering this early.
Especially...not now we seem to be sharing a common destiny. We happy few.
Especially...not now we seem to be sharing a common destiny. We happy few.
Sena
(unimpressed)
(unimpressed)
If I didn't know better... I'd say you were trying to get us all worked up!
Taion
Think whatever you want.
The others walk up.
Mio
I think you might be on the mark, though.
Taion
Oh?
Noah
We were all there, every one of us.
In the same situation.
In the same situation.
Taion
Now hold on...
Noah
The only difference was...
I was set...on protecting Mio. Protecting all of you guys.
And then, I suddenly transformed.
I was set...on protecting Mio. Protecting all of you guys.
And then, I suddenly transformed.
Taion
(surprised)
(surprised)
That's it? That's all it took?
Noah
Yeah.
Taion
So you can take that form via a strong desire, or emotion?
Noah
Possibly.
Eunie
Probably too much to ask of Professor Grump here.
Eunie walks right up to Taion.
Taion
What, me?
Eunie
Well, who'd you think?
Taion
And you're any different?
Eunie
(incredulously)
(incredulously)
What, me?
Hah! As if I'm gonna join with you.
Hah! As if I'm gonna join with you.
Noah
(cut it out)
(cut it out)
Eunie...
Eunie
Come on, though!
Mio
You're not going to manage this overnight. Not the way you all are right now.
Even so... It can't hurt to have a little hope, can it?
Even so... It can't hurt to have a little hope, can it?
Taion
Hrm. I suppose there's logic in that.
Discord
Noah
Hey guys... Could I have a moment?
The party stops walking and turns to look at Noah.
Riku
Meh?
Mio
Hm?
Lanz
Yeah? Wassup?
Noah
There's something that I forgot to tell you.
Manana
It about who in charge of din-din duties?
Noah
No...
From now on, I want us to avoid combat as much as possible.
So... Keves... Agnus... If either of them decide to put up a fight, don't kill them.
OK?
From now on, I want us to avoid combat as much as possible.
So... Keves... Agnus... If either of them decide to put up a fight, don't kill them.
OK?
Eunie
Not saying I'm against the idea... But why?
Lanz
Guess it'd suck having to draw on our allies.
Sena
Do we just knock them out cold or something?
Noah
Or get them to surrender.
Taion
(sarcastically)
(sarcastically)
How kind of you.
Noah
Huh?
Taion
I'm sure our past victims will appreciate that.
Lanz
(through gritted teeth)
(through gritted teeth)
You little-
Noah
(firmly)
(firmly)
We don't need to take any more lives.
There's...no point.
There's...no point.
Taion
(sigh)
Noah
There's a reason we met.
There has to be.
There has to be.
Taion
Huh?
Mio
You think?
Noah
Back then, if we hadn't met each other, we wouldn't be here like this now.
Mio
Even though we're being chased... by both nations at once...?
Noah
We get chased, we run. Easy.
Mio
A smart new decision.
The party looks to the Great Sword.
Noah
We'll keep on running...to that sword.
Later, Lanz and Sena are sitting by the campfire.
Lanz
(sigh)
Ugh. Talk about bad blood.
Ugh. Talk about bad blood.
Sena
Just give it time. It's early days!
Lanz
Maybe so...
Sena looks at Lanz's forearm and panel-like skin.
Sena
Funny pattern you got there.
He looks at her Core Crystal and ether lines.
Lanz
You can talk. You've got those shiny chest doo-dads.
Sena
We've...always had these.
Lanz
You know, I've never even thought of myself as strange before.
Mio
So many things... taken for granted...
Mio and Taion approach.
Mio
We're pretty different, huh? Worlds apart.
Taion
No one's worlds apart.
If anything, we should be questioning all that we've thought to be true.
Differences...are all a matter of perspective.
If anything, we should be questioning all that we've thought to be true.
Differences...are all a matter of perspective.
Mio
Hehe... Our skeptic.
Eunie
Hey... Are you always like this?
Taion
Of course. It's my nature.
Eunie
Hmm...
Personally, I think it's easier to take things at face value, you know?
Personally, I think it's easier to take things at face value, you know?
Taion
(dryly)
(dryly)
Now wouldn't that be nice.
Eunie walks over to Taion.
Eunie
Eh? You makin' fun of me?
Taion
(faux-innocently)
(faux-innocently)
All I said was, it would be nice.
Eunie
(properly offended)
(properly offended)
Oh-ho, no you don't!
You just called me an airhead, you jerk!
You just called me an airhead, you jerk!
Lanz and Sena share a look.
Taion
This is just... How long are you going to drag this out?
Eunie
For as long as I sparking need to! Until you come clean, four-eyes.
Taion
(exasperated, to himself)
(exasperated, to himself)
I can't believe this. Someone shoot me.
Consul K
Keves soldier
No, no, no! More to the right!
Right there! Start lowering!
Make sure it's airtight.
Sand around here? Finer than Ruska flour.
Right there! Start lowering!
Make sure it's airtight.
Sand around here? Finer than Ruska flour.
Keves engineer
I could do a triple weld?
Keves soldier
Sure. Long as the output's stable.
Keves engineer
Yessir!
The engineer gets to work. Near a stack of crates, a Kevesi wearing a hat angrily marches up to a tough-looking man.
Kevesi wearing hat
What's up with the K rounds? We're two caches short!
Hope you didn't snuff up the order!
Hope you didn't snuff up the order!
tough Kevesi
I don't know, OK? Got a problem, take it up with logistics.
Kevesi wearing hat
We're just a Dirt-rank colony, low as they come.
You think the Castle gives a crap?
You think the Castle gives a crap?
tough Kevesi
(undirected anger)
(undirected anger)
Queen's Oath, this pisses me off. We get better scores than any sparkin' colony out there.
Kevesi wearing hat
(whispering)
(whispering)
Did you know?
For Tin-rank field rations, I hear they get Ardun meat.
For Tin-rank field rations, I hear they get Ardun meat.
tough Kevesi
Really? And...us mudders?
Kevesi wearing hat
Trust me, you really don't wanna know.
As they talk, Ethel — now in her final term — and her lieutenant Bolearis walk up from behind. The chatting logisticians don't notice.
tough Kevesi
(longing)
(longing)
(sigh) I miss the good old Silver days.
Didn't have to rely on rations back then. We had cooks come and serve us right on the front line.
Used to get Armu sirloin, we did.
Didn't have to rely on rations back then. We had cooks come and serve us right on the front line.
Used to get Armu sirloin, we did.
Kevesi wearing hat
Seriously?!
The engineer has noticed Ethel, saluted, and tries to get the other two to notice.
Keves engineer
Ah- Hey!
tough Kevesi
What now? ...Urk!
The tough Kevesi hastily salutes. A second later, the hat-wearing Kevesi notices, and also salutes.
Ethel
My own indiscretion... has caused you difficulties.
I'm sorry.
I'm sorry.
Kevesi wearing hat
(stuttering)
(stuttering)
N-no! We would never... Our apologies, Commander Ethel!
tough Kevesi
That was all, uh, just banter! Believe me, we had...no intention of-
Ethel
(amicably)
(amicably)
You enjoyed eating Armu steak, did you?
tough Kevesi
(still at attention)
(still at attention)
Uh... Yes, I did! Tastiest food I ever ate!
Ethel
I liked it as well.
And I hope we will have it again.
So lend me your strength.
And I hope we will have it again.
So lend me your strength.
Kevesi wearing hat
Ma'am! Yes, ma'am!
Ethel and Bolearis walk off outside the Ferronis. The soldiers remain saluting as they leave.
Bolearis
(casually)
(casually)
I don't see what's wrong with Volff, personally.
Ethel
(chuckling)
(chuckling)
Pfft. That's because you have poor taste.
I'm jealous.
I'm jealous.
Bolearis
Well, trade you my taste buds?
Ethel
No, thank you.
My mouth'd turn as foul as yours.
My mouth'd turn as foul as yours.
Bolearis
Hahaha! True that.
They reach the colony gate. Nothing is around outside the colony but dust.
Bolearis
They cleared out real fast.
Ethel
I hear the attending Consul... is a particularly punctual sort of character.
Bolearis
Please not another stickler for the rules...
Ethel
Can't be long now.
Bolearis
Yeah... Got about five minutes to go...
Whoa!
Whoa!
They turn to where a noise like a jet engine can be heard approaching.
Bolearis
Well, well, Consul dear. Your reputation certainly precedes you...
A flying transporter navigates to the entrance of Colony 4, and lands vertically before the soldiers. Dust is kicked up everywhere, and Bolearis covers his face.
Bolearis
Ugh!
Sparks' sake, a hover type...?
I mean, did they not get the memo about the terrain here?
Sparks' sake, a hover type...?
I mean, did they not get the memo about the terrain here?
The door to the transporter opens, and K walks out, eyes shut. The Colony 4 soldiers salute.
Consul K
(with inflection)
(with inflection)
(coughing)
Ohh, why is it so insufferably dusty around here?
Clearly...the place befits its Dirt-rank status.
Ohh, why is it so insufferably dusty around here?
Clearly...the place befits its Dirt-rank status.
Ethel
(unperturbed)
(unperturbed)
The rainy season will soon be upon us.
I ask your patience, for just this short while.
I ask your patience, for just this short while.
Consul K
Is that so?
Then, leaving aside the issue of cleanliness...
Then, leaving aside the issue of cleanliness...
The Consul's Iris has poor visibility; black fog is mostly obscuring even the nearby soldiers.
Consul K
Just what is with all this fog?
I don't take kindly to my vision being obfuscated...
Oh, forget it.
So? Where are my quarters?
I don't take kindly to my vision being obfuscated...
Oh, forget it.
So? Where are my quarters?
Ethel
Yes, this way.
Ethel leads K away. Bolearis walks behind them. They arrive in a dusty, poorly-lit, but large room.
Consul K
Guh, what a filthy room!
How the Dirt rank has fallen...
Ah, I suppose that would be something to take up with the Castle.
How the Dirt rank has fallen...
Ah, I suppose that would be something to take up with the Castle.
K audibly sits down on the one chair behind the desk.
Ethel
(calmly)
(calmly)
Our Ferronis is an old model. I understand your displeasure...
but please don't escalate this.
but please don't escalate this.
Consul K
Do I detect some defiance?
Ethel
(stuttering)
(stuttering)
No, no, that was never my-
Consul K
(blithely chuckling)
(blithely chuckling)
Relax, girl. I jest.
Now then, let's cut the chitchat and talk business.
I'd like you to eradicate some vermin for me.
Now then, let's cut the chitchat and talk business.
I'd like you to eradicate some vermin for me.
Ethel
Vermin?
By your leave, sir, we've detected no movement from Agnian Ferronises around this area...
By your leave, sir, we've detected no movement from Agnian Ferronises around this area...
She looks to Bolearis, who nods.
Consul K
Not Agnus!
People. Soldiers.
A band of deserters from both sides.
Well, something like that.
People. Soldiers.
A band of deserters from both sides.
Well, something like that.
Ethel
Agnus and Keves...both?
Consul K
Hah. I think it's best you see for yourself.
Ethel
Hmm?
Consul K
This is expressly at the Queen's behest.
Don't foul this up.
Don't foul this up.
He finally opens his right eye (the other one is out of frame), and his lemniscate Iris glows. Meanwhile, the Queen of Keves stands surrounded by soldiers in the room with pods seen in chapter 1.
Back in Millick Meadows, the group is checking over their equipment. Noah is looking at profiles on his Iris. Mio walks up.
Back in Millick Meadows, the group is checking over their equipment. Noah is looking at profiles on his Iris. Mio walks up.
Mio
Looking at something?
Noah
Oh, nothing in particular, really. It's just kind of a habit.
Checking our status, the war... Watching for info updates...
Silly...
I don't know why I still bother to check it any more. Not like there'd be updates...
...Huh.
Checking our status, the war... Watching for info updates...
Silly...
I don't know why I still bother to check it any more. Not like there'd be updates...
...Huh.
As he looks at Mio, he notices something above her head — an icon of her twin ring Blade.
Mio
What is it?
Noah
An icon just popped up - over your head.
Mio
Huh?
She checks her own Iris, and an icon of Noah's sword is above Noah's head.
Mio
Oh yeah.
Now I can see an icon for you as well.
Now I can see an icon for you as well.
Noah
When did we unlock a feature like this?
I've never noticed it before.
I've never noticed it before.
The others gather around. Noah checks over their heads, and similar weapon icons have popped up, but they aren't glowing like Mio's is.
Noah
Yours seems to be... the only one not locked.
Noah selects the twinring icon, and his outfit suddenly changes to have Mio's jacket instead of his own.
Noah
Wha-?!
Mio
Huh?!
Manana
Ohoho?!
Eunie
He's lit up like a sparkin' lightbulb!
Noah
I guess there must still...be more to this feature.
He summons Mio's Blade and gets in her battle stance.
Sena
Hey, that's Mimi's!
Lanz
What in the blazes...?
In Noah's mind's eye, he can see himself in the same 'room' that he saw Mio's memories in during their Interlink. The imaginary Noah is using the Arts of Mio's class.
Noah
I've never used this kind of Blade before, but all the techniques I can use with it are flashing before my eyes.
Mio's own jacket swaps to Noah's at her command, and she summons Noah's Blade. She, too, can see herself using the Swordfighter Arts.
Mio
It's so weird... Not like...we suddenly just gained the knowledge out of the blue.
But...as if it were always ingrained deep within us. Strange...
But...as if it were always ingrained deep within us. Strange...
Sena checks her Iris. Mio's twinring icon is greyed out.
Sena
Aww, doesn't look like I can get Mimi's gear. Now that's a shame...
Eunie
Mm... This it?
Eunie's outfit switches to Taion's.
Eunie
(gasp)
How come I got moodyguts's and not Noah's, huh?
How come I got moodyguts's and not Noah's, huh?
Taion finds himself wearing Eunie's hoodie.
Taion
That's what I'd like to know. Your class is the only one I can seem to pick, unfortunately.
Lanz and Sena's jackets turn into each others'. They summon each others' Blades.
Lanz
Whoa...
You can lug this thing about without a power frame? Not bad!
You can lug this thing about without a power frame? Not bad!
Sena puts a hand to her head and smiles bashfully.
Eunie
Dunno how this is even working, but cool!
Taion
But is this all part of Ouroboros too?
If it gives us more options in battle, I'm all for it.
If it gives us more options in battle, I'm all for it.
Sena
(very excited)
(very excited)
Yeah, I wanna take this new Blade out for a spin!
Mio
From here, we head due south, right?
Noah
Perfect. We can test them out on the road.
Noah and Mio swap back to their own jackets.
Acquiring Classes
The party has fought some Bodom Grebels using each other's Classes.
Noah
I felt a lot more nimble there, like the way you usually fight.
Mio
It looked like second-nature to you. It was crazy.
Noah
You should have seen yourself!
Mio
(cheekily)
(cheekily)
Hehe. I think I could've thrashed you! With a little more practice...
Eunie
Y'know, it's totally bananas... Ouroboros is bonkers powerful.
Lanz
Right?
Sena checks her Iris again. Mio's Blade's icon is now about a fifth full.
Sena
Ah!
The gauge for the locked icon has filled right up!
The gauge for the locked icon has filled right up!
Mio checks Sena's and Taion's icons.
Mio
Same here...
Taion
So, logically, if we gain enough experience by fighting together, we will become able to use each other's classes.
That seems to be it.
As much as I'd like to experiment...
That seems to be it.
As much as I'd like to experiment...
Noah
Yeah, I guess we shouldn't stay in one place for too long.
Taion
Right.
Lanz
Well, better get ourselves down south!
Which Route to Take?
The party has reached the boundary of Eagus Wilderness and Elaice Highway.
Taion
Hold it a moment.
I have a proposal as to our next route.
I have a proposal as to our next route.
Mio
OK. Shoot.
Taion
I'll send you the map data.
He sends it to their Irises. A map and Taion's recommended path are communicated.
Taion
Broadly speaking, it's either east or west.
I would suggest we go west.
I would suggest we go west.
Mio
Why's that?
Taion
The area to the west is under Agnus's control.
There is a certain degree of risk, as they'll have deployed a number of units...
but it's the quickest way to get south.
There is a certain degree of risk, as they'll have deployed a number of units...
but it's the quickest way to get south.
Noah
What about the east route?
Taion
No man's land. None of the colonies have laid claim to it as of yet.
However, we'd suffer a significant time loss.
However, we'd suffer a significant time loss.
Sena
Time...versus risk.
Lanz
Wait a sec. We're gonna stir up the Skeeter nest?
Taion
I only said there was a "degree" of risk.
Really, it's not so bad.
Really, it's not so bad.
Eunie
But Agnian troops are deployed there, yeah?
Taion
Yes.
Eunie
And we're still gonna go?
Taion
All I said is that it would be more efficient.
Eunie
(flatly)
(flatly)
Efficient.
Sena
Well, maybe we do need to be more efficient!
Faster is better! We don't wanna be dragging our heels forever...right?
Faster is better! We don't wanna be dragging our heels forever...right?
Mio
Hey...
I just have to ask... Are you trying to push some agenda?
I just have to ask... Are you trying to push some agenda?
Taion
(taken aback)
(taken aback)
Wha-? No... Certainly not...
Mio
But you admit the east route is the safer option.
That's just strange. Why wouldn't you pick the safe way?
That's just strange. Why wouldn't you pick the safe way?
Taion
Because time is of the-
Mio
Look. There you go again.
Taion
(sigh) That's not all, though!
It's all wasteland to the east. The...the heat! It'll be unbearable!
It's all wasteland to the east. The...the heat! It'll be unbearable!
Sena
Er... Yeah, you're gonna melt in the sun!
Mio
I'm fine with your choice. But we need to think about everyone's safety.
Lanz
Noah, what's your take?
Noah
Me? Uhh...
Everyone looks at Noah. He remembers Mio's crossed-out days in her diary, and looks at her.
Noah
I think...I'd rather take the safe route.
As for the heat... We can probably figure something out.
As for the heat... We can probably figure something out.
Lanz
There. Four against two.
Taion
(annoyed)
(annoyed)
(scoff)
Mio
Taion... Sena...
They look at one another, somewhat disappointed.
Mio
Please.
Taion
Ngh... Fine, then. If you absolutely insist.
Sena nods.
Mio
Then it's settled!
C'mon, cheer up guys! We're outta here!
C'mon, cheer up guys! We're outta here!
Heading Towards the Oasis
The sun beats down upon the party in the middle of the Eagus Wilderness. Great empty voids in the rock can be seen in the background; some rocks float in midair around the boundary. Mio and Sena have removed their jackets, and Mio is visibly exhausted, being supported by Sena.
Mio
Ugggh... So...hot...
Can't...go on...
Can't...go on...
Sena
(desperately)
(desperately)
Keep it together now, Mimi!
I'll drag you along myself if I have to!
I'll drag you along myself if I have to!
Lanz
I mean, I get that it's hot, but really?
Taion
(plainly)
(plainly)
Whether we're talking food or weather, Mio does not take to heat.
I knew this would happen.
I knew this would happen.
Noah
Heat's never bothered you, has it, Lanz?
Lanz
(proudly flexing)
(proudly flexing)
Nnnope. I'm made of sterner stuff.
Mio is semi-conscious, flumped over Sena's shoulder.
Noah
Honestly, I'm starting to feel a little worn out.
Spot to rest would be nice about now.
Spot to rest would be nice about now.
Sena
(excitedly pointing)
(excitedly pointing)
Hey, look! There!
Mimi, look! It's water! There's an oasis!
Mimi, look! It's water! There's an oasis!
Mio
Wa...w-water...?
Mio slowly looks up, and her vision focuses on the oasis.
Sena
Yeah, water!!!
Mio perks right up.
Mio
Water!!!
Sena
C'mon! Let's go!
Mio
Yeah!
The two dash off, Mio's exhaustion forgotten.
Lanz
Oh, come on. Talk about overreacting.
Taion
We should be thankful they're back in high spirits.
Noah
Let's just hope it's not a mirage...
The rest of the party follow.
Refreshing!
Mio, Sena, Riku, and Manana have dressed down and are chilling in the oasis.
Mio
Ahaha! Nice and cool!
Sena
Thank the Clock...
Eunie jumps in with an excited yelp. Lanz removes his jacket and walks backward for a running start.
Lanz
Aw'right then...
My turn!
My turn!
Noah
You too?
Lanz
Don't happen every day!
After cricking his neck, Lanz runs and jumps.
Sena
Waah?!
He lands in the middle of the group with a massive splash. Riku and Manana float to the surface, stunned. Eunie similarly rises up and takes a gasp of air.
Eunie
(fuming)
(fuming)
You muppet!
Lanz surfaces, laughing.
Eunie
NEVER do that again!
Lanz
(grinning)
(grinning)
C'mon!
You're already soaking wet anyway! What difference does it make?
You're already soaking wet anyway! What difference does it make?
Eunie
The difference is, you're an arsehole! What snuffin' difference...
Uggh, I've got water in my ears now...!
Uggh, I've got water in my ears now...!
Meanwhile, Taion and Noah are standing above, observing.
Noah
Staying here, are you?
Taion
I've got something to take care of.
He pulls up a map of the region on his Iris.
Taion
I'll send it to you now.
Noah
A map?
Marked circles appear on the map.
Taion
From the survey branch.
Annihilation events occur frequently here.
Annihilation events occur frequently here.
Noah
Annihilation events? You mean...
A flashback plays of the two glowing spheres in the void colliding, and the spheres of annihilation scouring the landscape.
Taion
Look.
They look back where they came at the voids in the landscape.
Taion
It happens here too.
The oasis they're standing by has formed in a suspiciously spherical cavity.
Taion
Given our route, we should take the safest way possible.
Noah
(appreciatively)
(appreciatively)
Very cautious of you.
Taion
It's my duty to be.
Noah
Thank you.
Noah claps Taion's shoulder. Taion is slightly taken aback.
Taion
Uh...Sure.
Taion watches wordlessly as Noah walks back, doffs his jacket, then dashes forward and jumps into the water with a splash.
all
Whoa!
Noah's Blade
The party is walking on through the wilderness. Mio hangs back to walk with Noah.
Mio
Hey, can I ask you something?
Noah
Mm?
Mio
It's special, isn't it? Your Blade, I mean.
Noah
Um...?
Mio
Sometimes one part of it...glows. Why's that?
Noah
Ah...!
You can tell? That's amazing...
You can tell? That's amazing...
Mio
It's hard not to.
Noah
Ah, right.
Noah stops talking for a moment.
Mio
Is it a secret?
Noah
No, I can tell you.
A flashback plays: back in the training camp, young Kevesi are training with various weapons. Eunie practices swinging her Gunrod, takes aim, and fires; the recoil almost knocks her off her feet, but she stays standing. Joran summons his staff Blade with difficulty, takes several stances, and a sparse ring of healing surrounds him. He tries again, and this time the ring expands to an appreciable size. Satisfied, he mops his brow. Noah picks up a physical sword (not a Blade) and goes through training motions.
Kite
Noah, my man... Are you still playing around with that little toy?
It's Garvel and his goons. They swagger up.
Kayla
(taunting)
(taunting)
Have you considered a Nopon weapon? You might actually get somewhere with that.
Noah wordlessly keeps practicing his swings.
Garvel
Oi! You deaf or what, Noah?!
Lanz, Eunie, and Joran have stopped, unlike Noah.
Joran
Garvel?!
Noah, this is bad...
Noah, this is bad...
Garvel
Heh. Not even a peep?
Don't need to pay us any attention?
Don't need to pay us any attention?
Noah
(still practicing)
(still practicing)
Oh please... I wasn't ignoring you.
Once I finish this set...we can chat!
Once I finish this set...we can chat!
Noah swings a few more times, and finishes with a swing that seems to reverberate around the yard. The others are taken aback. Noah stands up, exhales, and turns to Garvel.
Noah
Well? What were you saying?
Garvel
(incensed)
(incensed)
Noah...
For dead weight, you're a right snuffing peacock!
For dead weight, you're a right snuffing peacock!
Garvel suddenly rushes at Noah and swings with his sword. Noah deftly dodges his swipes.
Garvel
Ugh, you...!
You slippery little mudder!
You slippery little mudder!
After a few more attacks, Noah pins Garvel's sword to the ground with his foot and holds his own to Garvel's neck.
Noah
Well, anything else?
Garvel
You...snuffin' weakling!
Garvel frees his sword, kicks Noah in the stomach, and cleaves through Noah's sword with his own Blade.
Noah
Blast it all!
A punch sends Noah to the ground.
Garvel
(furious)
(furious)
Oh, you'll...get it now!
He swings his sword down at the unarmed Noah. Lanz gets there first and blocks the blow.
Garvel
(surprised)
(surprised)
L-Lanz?!
Lanz
Break it up now.
Didn't know you could be so petty, Garvel.
Didn't know you could be so petty, Garvel.
Garvel
Peh.
Ain't got no time for this musclehead.
Ain't got no time for this musclehead.
Lanz
(challenging)
(challenging)
Wanna say that again?
Garvel
Hmph! We'll settle this properly... In tomorrow's trial!
Garvel dismisses his Blade and walks way.
Garvel
Move it!
The rest of his gang goes with him. Joran runs up to Noah.
Joran
Noah, are you OK?
Later, Noah and co. are hanging out in an alleyway.
Lanz
Don't let it get to you.
Guys like that are the first ones to snuff it in a real battle.
Guys like that are the first ones to snuff it in a real battle.
Noah
(melancholy)
(melancholy)
No, I'm not worried about him.
I really can't call my weapon, though...
I worry I'll end up being a burden.
I really can't call my weapon, though...
I worry I'll end up being a burden.
Lanz
Never thought that here, not even once.
Noah
Thanks...
Kind of you to say.
Kind of you to say.
Lanz
It's just the truth!
Noah gets up and walks off.
Lanz
Where you going?
Noah
To visit Riku. Since it broke.
The trial - it's tomorrow.
I'm gonna need a new weapon for that.
The trial - it's tomorrow.
I'm gonna need a new weapon for that.
Eunie, Lanz, and Joran follow Noah to Riku's workshop, where a slim, sharp sword with a circular pattern hole in the hilt is on display.
Noah
What's this?
Riku
(proudly)
(proudly)
Magic sword, Lucky Seven!
In distant past, were seven legendary swordsmithpon.
Over course of seven years,
forged sword from seven types of steel.
No other sword like it in existing.
In distant past, were seven legendary swordsmithpon.
Over course of seven years,
forged sword from seven types of steel.
No other sword like it in existing.
Noah
Magic?
Lanz
Lucky Seven?
Riku
(serious)
(serious)
Lanz, please to give good cleave with Blade and split clean in halves.
Lanz
Sure 'bout that?
Better not pull some
"You break it, you bought it"
sneaky sorta deal...
Better not pull some
"You break it, you bought it"
sneaky sorta deal...
Riku
(earnestly)
(earnestly)
Riku would never dream!
Just put all of heft into mighty swing!
Just put all of heft into mighty swing!
Lanz
Weird ask...
Eh, sure.
You want me to cut it, I'll cut it, I guess.
Eh, sure.
You want me to cut it, I'll cut it, I guess.
Lanz summons his Shieldblade and raises it up.
Lanz
Here it comes!
He swings down. The Shieldblade is cleanly sliced through as it strikes Lucky Seven's cutting edge. Riku grins.
Lanz
(wide-eyed)
(wide-eyed)
Queen's beans! There's not even a nick in it!
Riku
Friend surprised? Indeed, is most prized of swords.
Even armor of Ferronis get sliced to itsy bits!
Even armor of Ferronis get sliced to itsy bits!
Noah
(hesitating)
(hesitating)
I think...I'll pass.
Riku
Pass?
So you not have need for?
So you not have need for?
Noah
Yeah. It's too strong.
Riku
Hmmmm...
Noah want Lanz and friends to kick buckets?
Noah want Lanz and friends to kick buckets?
Noah
(offended)
(offended)
No, what the spark?!
Riku
(fully serious)
(fully serious)
Same as letting friends die.
Noah
No it's not.
Riku
If friends not fight, cannot survive.
Noah
Sure, but I don't need to use your sword.
Riku
Then, why Noah not call Blade?
Noah
It's not out of choice, I just can't...
Riku
(interrupting)
(interrupting)
False! Riku see through like transparent!
Noah is taken aback, but doesn't argue.
Riku
Noah *can* call Blade!
Just no big desire of fighting spirit!
Just no big desire of fighting spirit!
Noah
Riku...
Lanz
Hey, is he serious?
Noah?
Noah?
Noah wordlessly summons a red sword Blade (not his usual one), not looking at the others, then dismisses it.
Lanz
What the...
All this time...?
Huh?
All this time...?
Huh?
Riku
If death is not option, should live.
Only way is fight like life depends.
Thinking of self...alone...is way of coward.
Though, Riku know feeling well.
Only way is fight like life depends.
Thinking of self...alone...is way of coward.
Though, Riku know feeling well.
Noah
I'm afraid...
Lanz
Of fighting, you mean?
Noah shakes his head.
Noah
Of this world. It's so brutal and relentless.
And I'm afraid of what...we might...
become.
And I'm afraid of what...we might...
become.
Lanz
Mate...
Riku
(somewhat proudly)
(somewhat proudly)
Ohoho! Riku knew Noah was hero material!
Noah
Huh?
Riku
It true this sword possess incredible power.
Might even rob enemies of many-much lives, yes.
But only those who understand nature of terror have right to wield...
...Eh, quoth masterpon of Riku, anyhaps.
So, if Noah can call Blade now, can still keep Lucky Seven, maybe in some kind of disguise.
In different words, can turn it into sheath.
Might even rob enemies of many-much lives, yes.
But only those who understand nature of terror have right to wield...
...Eh, quoth masterpon of Riku, anyhaps.
So, if Noah can call Blade now, can still keep Lucky Seven, maybe in some kind of disguise.
In different words, can turn it into sheath.
Noah
Sheath...?
Riku
Can use it in fights like normal.
But if ever push come to shove...
Time will come when Noah truly need Lucky Seven's strength.
Then is only matter of drawing.
But if ever push come to shove...
Time will come when Noah truly need Lucky Seven's strength.
Then is only matter of drawing.
Noah
When I truly need its...strength.
Riku
Exact.
If Noah never lose sight of that feeling, one day, such time surely come.
If Noah never lose sight of that feeling, one day, such time surely come.
Noah
That is, if I can master it...
Riku
If fail to master, just give back.
Can pick out different one!
Can pick out different one!
Noah
Ah, right...
Riku
Please not to feel specially indebted to Riku - just take!
No need for overthinkings!
No need for overthinkings!
Noah
(a little happier)
(a little happier)
Hah! OK.
I accept your offer.
Oh, and...Riku?
I accept your offer.
Oh, and...Riku?
Riku
What is?
Noah
Mind if I...change the name?
Riku
Meh?
young Noah
(sheepishly)
(sheepishly)
"Lucky Seven" just isn't doing it for me...
Riku
Aww...
The flashback ends.
Mio
So...what name did you end up picking?
Noah
Huh? Uh... Name?
Mio
(teasing)
(teasing)
Uh-huh.
You don't wanna say? Or what, is it that embarrassing?
You don't wanna say? Or what, is it that embarrassing?
Noah
N-no... It's not embarrassing. That's not it.
Mio
(chuckling)
(chuckling)
Haha... I'm getting strong...emotional vibes here.
Noah
(lost in thought)
(lost in thought)
I wouldn't say "emotional" per se...
Rather...
something I miss. Yeah.
Rather...
something I miss. Yeah.
Mio exhales.
Noah
You know, you're the second one that's noticed this weapon.
Mio
Really? Is that something special?
Noah
It is.
Mio
And the first? Who was it?
Noah
She's incredible.
And we...owe her our lives.
And we...owe her our lives.
In Colony 4, Ethel looks out from the commander's room. Her right eye glows with the same red light as that of the Colony 9 and Gamma soldiers when they attacked the party.
Colony 4 Attacks
In an open plain, Lanz notices a soldier's bootprints in the ground.
Lanz
This'll be sketchy.
Eunie
Yeah... Agreed.
Manana
What friends afraid of, hmm?
Noah
I'm seeing signs of patrols. Was it Colony 4...?
Mio
Colony 4?
Riku
Colony of badbutt elites, led by commander of great repute.
Whole rest of Keves acknowledge their superiority.
Whole rest of Keves acknowledge their superiority.
Taion
Are you certain? This is Nih'l Valley!
Lanz
Right. Like Riku said.
Taion
But how can this be? How can their zone of control extend this far out...?
The ground begins to rumble.
Sena
Huh? Anyone feel that?
Mio
A quake...?
Noah
No, it's...
Over there!
Over there!
Colony 4's Ferronis rolls onto the scene, smashing through boulders in its way. Levnises and troops advance from it. Shots from its secondary cannons fire upon the party, who run to escape falling rocks. Ethel and Bolearis appear atop the Ferronis, Irises glowing red.
Ethel
There you are!
You monsters!
You monsters!
As the party runs under cover, Bolearis signals, and the firing stops.
Noah
(to the party)
(to the party)
Us, monsters?
Eunie
Noah, look!
Eunie points out Ethel.
Noah
That's...Ethel!
Mio
You said...Ethel?
You mean Silvercoat Ethel?
You mean Silvercoat Ethel?
Lanz
You know about her?
Mio
Even in Agnus, the name has spread far and wide.
Silvercoat Ethel... A veteran soldier unmatched in strength.
People would whisper...about how she felled three colonies at once with just a hundred troops!
Silvercoat Ethel... A veteran soldier unmatched in strength.
People would whisper...about how she felled three colonies at once with just a hundred troops!
Eunie
Yeah, but...this is Ethel!
Taion
We know her name! So?
Eunie
(hopeful)
(hopeful)
So, she helped us out once before!
She was strong,
but kind.
She could still help.
She was strong,
but kind.
She could still help.
Noah steps towards the exposed plain.
Eunie
Noah?
Noah
It might not work, but...
Taion
Noah!
Noah
It's all right.
Noah runs out from cover. In Ethel's eye, he takes the form of a being shrouded in black clouds with glowing eyes.
Noah
(shouting)
(shouting)
Ethel! It's me!
Noah, from Colony 9!
You know us,
you saved us back in Colony 14!
You praised my Blade...
You must remember!
Noah, from Colony 9!
You know us,
you saved us back in Colony 14!
You praised my Blade...
You must remember!
Ethel
You say I helped you...
in Colony 14?
in Colony 14?
Noah
You did!
Ethel
(unsure)
(unsure)
Really?
She looks again at the strange form.
Ethel
I've no recollection of helping
you!
you!
The shelling restarts. Noah runs back to where the rest of the party are hiding, and Lanz pulls him in.
Taion
This is far from "all right"!
Mio
It's pointless...
Noah
Sorry. I thought I could convince her.
Should've known it wouldn't work.
Should've known it wouldn't work.
At another signal from Bolearis, the shelling stops.
Ethel
Taking cover?
Bad move.
Bad move.
Ethel's Iris glows, and she can see the outline of the party behind the rock. Meanwhile, K is in his office, Iris glowing through his closed eye.
Consul K
Very well done, Ethel.
I do so love your loyalty.
Now, the enemy is before you.
Chase them to the ends of the world.
Not a single one of them can escape.
I do so love your loyalty.
Now, the enemy is before you.
Chase them to the ends of the world.
Not a single one of them can escape.
Bolearis signals, and the troops advance.
Running away from Colony 4
Lanz
No amount of healing's gonna help if that thing hits us!
Mio
We should retreat under cover, then.
Black Fog
The party is making their way through the Gorge of Odie. Lanz incapacitates an attacking Colony 4 soldier.
Lanz
(out of breath)
(out of breath)
Ngh! Yep, just keep 'em coming, no problem!
Noah
Look out!
More shots from the Ferronis rain down on the party. They run.
Riku
Risky business!
Eunie
Doesn't help that their cannons are way too accurate!
Mio
They shouldn't be able to see us from over there.
Manana
How they know location of Manana and friends?!
Taion
The Iris...
Manana
Meh?
Taion
Her red Iris is doing this. It's relaying our exact position to her troops!
Lanz
Snuff this...
Eunie
Lanz! 6 o'clock!
Colony 4 troops are on their tail. Lanz draws his Blade.
Lanz
Spark!
More shots are fired.
Noah
Again?!
Lanz and Taion shield the party. The shots strike the Colony 4 soldiers.
Taion
The soldiers!
Lanz
Their whole squad?! Those heartless mudders...
Noah
Guys, pull back to the cave!
Sena
What cave?!
Noah points to a throughway in the rocks ahead.
Noah
We're sitting Bunnits out here. In there, we can take cover from the volleys.
Lanz
And after that?
Noah
Think about that later.
Lanz
No plan B?!
Noah
(exasperated)
(exasperated)
I didn't have time!
K, still in his office, closes his eyes and his Iris glows.
Consul K
You can't run from me, brats.
I've got my eye on you!
I've got my eye on you!
The party runs through a patch of fog.
Taion
Black fog...?
Consul K
Ugh, really? Suddenly fog?
Heh!
Ah, no big deal. It'll hardly slow me down.
I still have eyes on the prize.
Heh!
Ah, no big deal. It'll hardly slow me down.
I still have eyes on the prize.
He watches them run; his Iris vision is glitching but still works.
Taion Ponders
The party is in Bennel Cave. Taion takes advantage of a lull in the fighting to think.
Taion
Hmmm...
Lanz
Hey, Taion!
Have you been hit?
Have you been hit?
Taion
No...
Lanz
Then what?
Taion
The enemy's acting strangely. Something's off.
Mio
Off how?
Taion
Even when we engage, the other soldiers don't provide backup.
It's like none of them have been given orders.
It's like none of them have been given orders.
Eunie
You're overthinkin' it.
Taion
I thought I was, at first...
Hey, Noah...
Hey, Noah...
Noah
Yeah. I agree with Taion.
They did seem kind of slow to respond.
They did seem kind of slow to respond.
Taion seems to realise something, and looks back.
Taion
Oh no...
Showdown with Ethel
The party reaches Hegemon's Seat at the other end of the cave. They come across a cliff leading to a lake.
Noah
We can get down from the left side.
With any luck, we can lead them the wrong way.
(gasp)
With any luck, we can lead them the wrong way.
(gasp)
No such luck; Colony 4's Ferronis is right there and advancing upon them. Ethel still stands atop it.
Eunie
Ethel!
Ethel jumps right onto the ground before the party.
Ethel
So unfortunate.
Other Colony 4 forces surround the party on all sides and draw their weapons.
Taion
Huh! She read us like a book!
Noah
Ethel!
Do you really not recognize us at all?!
Do you really not recognize us at all?!
Ethel
Disgusting...
Noah
Huh?
Ethel
(yelling)
(yelling)
The sight of you *things* speaking the words of man...
It makes my skin crawl!
It makes my skin crawl!
Ethel gets in a combat stance.
Noah
Ugh... We'll never get through...
Lanz
Come off it! Just what the spark does she see us as, Gogols?
Eunie
She's right there. Why don't you ask her?
The party draws their weapons.
Lanz
Like we'll get a straight answer!
The Merciless K
Ethel has been blown back, but stops herself and shoots a beam from one of her Blades. Lanz blocks it; the force causes an overhang in the rock behind the party to fall. The rest of the party are still standing.
♫
Lanz
Ugh! She's way too good!
Eunie
(breathing heavily)
(breathing heavily)
Well I guess we don't call her Silvercoat Ethel for nothing, eh?!
Ethel gets back up, looking none the worse for wear.
Manana
Tight pinch keeps getting tighter!!!
Sena
Mimi!
Mio
Understood.
Mio looks to Noah.
Mio
Ready?
Noah
(quietly)
(quietly)
We can't.
Mio
But why not?
Noah
It's too powerful.
We could just wind up killing her.
We could just wind up killing her.
Ethel is advancing towards the party. Black fog starts to blow across the scene.
Mio
Yes, but...
Without warning, Ethel drops her Blades and holds her right eye in pain.
Ethel
(cry of pain)
Noah
What happened? She just stopped...?
In Ethel's vision, the cloudy illusion covering the party members (Nopon aside) is glitching out; they appear as ordinary humans for a split second.
Ethel
(cry of pain)
Wh-what's...
What am I...fighting against here...?
Wh-what's...
What am I...fighting against here...?
Noah dismisses his Blade.
Noah
Maybe now...
Ethel! It's me! It's Noah!
Ethel! It's me! It's Noah!
Ethel
(realisation)
(realisation)
Did...you say...
Noah...?
Noah...?
Noah
Ethel!
Meanwhile, K can see through Ethel's Iris that the illusion is failing.
Consul K
(casually)
(casually)
Oh, if needs must.
K teleports out of his room. Ethel sinks to her knees, and Noah moves forward but is stopped by a bolt of lightning right in front of him. K reappears in front of Ethel.
Ethel
(struggling to speak)
(struggling to speak)
C...Consul...
Consul K
Really.
This is why I can't stand fog.
And we were just getting to the good part...
This is why I can't stand fog.
And we were just getting to the good part...
Noah's sword starts vibrating.
Ethel
C-Consul...
I...I'm...
What...
What am I...?
I...I'm...
What...
What am I...?
Consul K
(angrily)
(angrily)
Silence!
You were pathetic!
You were pathetic!
K walks forward as a bolt of lightning strikes Ethel, incapacitating her.
Ethel
(cry of pain)
Noah
Ethel!!!
Consul K
Heh. I suppose it's more fun this way.
K gets into a boxing stance. Noah resummons his Blade.
Consul K
Well...? Don't you agree?
Consul K
(very camp)
(very camp)
It's the big bad boss. Boo!
Cutting down the Flame Clock
K is down.
Eunie
Did we do it?
Noah
Wait! Something's wrong.
K slowly gets back up. Electricity crackles around him, growing into a fierce spherical lightning storm that seems to be absorbed into his body.
Taion
The light's being drawn in...
Sena
The same as when Noah and Mimi...?
K's body shines and morphs into a monster — similar to the Moebius the party had seen, but wider and with just one core. The party gasps.
Mio
He transformed...
He looks exactly like that other one...!
He looks exactly like that other one...!
K's Iris flashes through his closed eye.
Taion
That Iris... So he was the one controlling the troops?!
Noah
Moebius...
Red motes rise from K as he draws himself up to his full height. His skin seems to carry the injuries of the battle earlier. Noah's sword is vibrating intensely.
Lanz
But he's looking pretty hurt... Come on!
With a yell and a flex, K draws green healing light from Colony 4's Flame Clock.
Lanz
Wha...?!
Eunie
His wounds... They look like they're healing!
The wounds on his skin are covered in healing energy. The Colony 4 soldiers fall to the ground and writhe in agony as red motes are pulled from their bodies. Lanz and Sena charge and attack.
Lanz
Any good?!
K's Iris flashes and he pulls more energy from the Flame Clock, causing it to die down. More soldiers are incapacitated.
Taion
He did it again!
No way... He's stealing from the Clocks?!
No way... He's stealing from the Clocks?!
Moebius K
(faux-jovially)
(faux-jovially)
Hahahahaha!
My dear boy...
Your vaunted intuition...
is shit!!!
My dear boy...
Your vaunted intuition...
is shit!!!
K punches the ground, sending rocks flying and blasting back the party members. Eunie and Taion keep firing away; K shrugs off the attacks.
Moebius K
I'm not "stealing" from them.
I, as Moebius, have the right to do with the Flame Clocks as I please.
I, as Moebius, have the right to do with the Flame Clocks as I please.
Mio and Lanz attack, but K draws upon the Flame Clock again and his wounds heal. The Flame Clock is now dangerously low.
Moebius K
You may hurt me as much as your hearts desire...
But where there is life and vitality...!!!
I'm afraid I...shall...not...fall.
But where there is life and vitality...!!!
I'm afraid I...shall...not...fall.
Noah is standing still out of indecision. K cheekily draws his finger down Noah's sword; healing light mixes with the red motes that rise from his finger.
Moebius K
Come now. Whyyyy don't you give it your best shot...
and HAVE AT ME!!!
Hahahaha... If you think you can!
and HAVE AT ME!!!
Hahahaha... If you think you can!
Noah sees Ethel writhing on the ground.
Noah
Stop attacking! Eunie! Lanz!
Eunie and Lanz do not stop attacking.
Lanz
You must be sparkin' joking!
Eunie
If we let up now, he'll take US down!
Noah
But...our friends from Colony 4...!
A mighty punch to the ground from K sends boulders flying. Taion's Mondo push Noah out of the way of one of them.
Taion
Wake up, Noah! They're not your friends any more. They're his fuel!
Noah
Even so...!
Moebius K
(laughing gleefully)
(laughing gleefully)
These soldiers will nourish me...
like Glitter Radishes in season.
like Glitter Radishes in season.
K's wounds close, and he does a funny little walk back towards the Ferronis.
Moebius K
And we can always grow plenty more!
If I need a little extra, I can pluck them whenever I want!
If I need a little extra, I can pluck them whenever I want!
Noah
(to himself)
(to himself)
He's killing more of our friends... the more we hit him!
There has got to be a way...
There has got to be a way...
Noah looks up at the Flame Clock.
Noah
What if we... But then...
Mio is now beside Noah and overhears.
Mio
What? Did you think of something?
He doesn't answer.
Mio
(impatiently)
(impatiently)
Come on!
Noah
(quietly)
(quietly)
The Flame Clock...
What if we smashed it?
What if we smashed it?
Mio
(confused, then realising)
(confused, then realising)
You what? How should I know something li-
Do you mean...
Do you mean...
K is rising up to the top of the Ferronis and glowing.
Noah
But...what if we just end up killing everybody...?
Mio
If we keep fighting like this... we're all dead.
Noah
Rock and a hard place, huh...
The Ferronis starts to move forward.
Mio
Whatever life is lost...I won't let you shoulder it all alone!
Noah
Mio...
The Ferronis's main cannon is charging. It rises up to battle position.
Moebius K
Hah. I think it's about time we entered the final act!
♫
The cannon fires, scouring a great trail of destruction across the landscape. Noah and Mio dive out of the way, and look at the charred, lightly burning ground where the cannon fired.
Noah
All right... We'll try it!
Lanz!
Lanz!
Lanz, Eunie, Taion, and Sena are behind cover on the other side of the smoking trail. They have to shout to communicate.
Lanz
What's up?
Noah
Draw his attention for me!
Lanz
And then what?
Noah
I'll get in close...and destroy the Flame Clock!
Lanz
Wha- But... If you do that...
Noah
(resolutely)
(resolutely)
We've got to. It's the only way.
On my head be it!
On my head be it!
Lanz
(gasp)
The spark are you on about? I'm not gonna let you take the fall alone!
The spark are you on about? I'm not gonna let you take the fall alone!
Noah and Mio stare at him. Lanz looks back to where K is charging up to fire again.
Lanz
Nngh, snuff it. Fine!
Have it your way. Get going!
Eunie!
Have it your way. Get going!
Eunie!
Eunie
(grinning)
(grinning)
Cover fire? Leave it to me!
Lanz
Taion! Sena! We need you too!
Taion is taken aback for a moment, then chuckles.
Taion
Understood!
Sena
Just say when, guys!
Noah
Thanks, everyone...
I'll count down from three!
I'll count down from three!
The party gets ready to move.
Noah
Three...two...one...
Let's go!
Let's go!
The party runs out towards the Ferronis. They spread out in pairs — Noah with Mio, Eunie with Taion, Lanz with Sena.
Moebius K
Heh. I know what you're thinking.
However...
However...
The cannon shot rises into the sky and splits apart into bolts that rain down across the field.
Moebius K
If I keep on firing potshots... I'm bound to hit one of you sooner or later.
Preferably SOONER!
Preferably SOONER!
Lanz and Sena stop running to block. Noah is almost hit and knocked off his feet; Mio, turning back as she notices, is similarly knocked down.
Lanz
Oh crap!
Lanz and Sena start to run over to Noah and Mio.
Lanz
Noaaah!!!
Sena
Mimi!
As they reach out, Lanz and Sena's bodies glow and unravel together. They find themselves in a sea of each other's memories, as when Noah and Mio interlinked. Lanz sees and hears voices of Sena echo around the space: "You sure? I'm a nobody..." "But I'm just...practicing..." "Uh... Sorry." And Mio: "Hey, Sena...? There's no need for this." Meanwhile, voices of the young Kevesi trio surround Sena: Joran's saying "Watch out!" and Lanz's with "Come on..." "They wanna take you outta the running!" "We can take care of ourselves! Just go!"
Their bodies fuse into the glowing core and a new Ouroboros form, broad and deep-purple-coloured, takes their place. Above it spawns a giant ether shield which fully blocks the cannon shots.
Their bodies fuse into the glowing core and a new Ouroboros form, broad and deep-purple-coloured, takes their place. Above it spawns a giant ether shield which fully blocks the cannon shots.
Noah
Lanz... That form... You mean...
Sena
Hey, I'm here too!
Mio
Sena as well? So then...
Moebius K
Well, lookee here...
Fooound you.
Fooound you.
K fires a directed, sustained blast from the main cannon. The Ouroboros shields the blow, with difficulty.
Lanz
That mudder...
Eunie and Taion are outputting all the healing they can muster. It flows into the Ouroboros, but they still struggle.
Sena
Lanz! We can't keep this up!
Lanz
(groaning under the effort)
(groaning under the effort)
Gotta...stick it out...
The blast continues, and the shield begins to waver.
Lanz
(disappointed grunt) Was that it?
K stops firing to charge a final shot.
Moebius K
All right. Now for the coup de grâce.
Get a load of this!
Get a load of this!
He fires. The shield is shattered.
Eunie
(screaming)
(screaming)
Noah! Lanz!
When Eunie opens her eyes, she and Taion are in the orange-glowing zone of an Interlink. Audible is the voice of an unknown woman: "Until the day of your Homecoming... please, just live." "I'd like to go back someday. To where this was taken..." "You must! Flee for the colony!" The voice of the younger Eunie rings with "I think Joran did the right thing." and "We can go through here, and then we're out!" And Taion's voice, uncharacteristically yelling: "Begging your pardon, that's idiocy. And certain death!" "Ma'am! Nimue!"
They fuse into a core, and an intense green sphere explodes, with them at the epicentre. Healing light washes over Noah, Mio, and Lanz & Sena's Ouroboros. They look over themselves and get up.
They fuse into a core, and an intense green sphere explodes, with them at the epicentre. Healing light washes over Noah, Mio, and Lanz & Sena's Ouroboros. They look over themselves and get up.
Noah
My wounds...
Lanz
They're already gone.
When the dust clears, another Ouroboros form, this one red and with membranous wing motifs, is standing where Eunie and Taion stood. They look over their new body.
Eunie
Did I... Uh... I did this?!
Whoa...
Whoa...
Taion
(chiding)
(chiding)
There's time for that later!
Eunie
Ah, right!
Noah! Mio! Now's our chance!
Noah! Mio! Now's our chance!
Noah
Yeah!
Intense black fog starts to roll over the battlefield.
Moebius K
(distressed)
(distressed)
Wha... The fog?!
This is absurd! Can't see a damn thing...
Ugggh!!! Where are they?!
Where?
This is absurd! Can't see a damn thing...
Ugggh!!! Where are they?!
Where?
The fog completely obscures K's Iris's vision.
Moebius K
Where have they gone?
I can't see... Can't see anything!
I can't see... Can't see anything!
Lanz & Sena's Ouroboros is suddenly on top of K and punches him down.
Lanz
Hey, mudder...
Catch!
Catch!
Moebius K
Why you little... When did you get the jump on me?
Well, in that case...
Well, in that case...
K finally opens his eyes. Eunie & Taion's Ouroboros is right in front of him.
Eunie
Now you decide to open your eyes? Bad sparking shout!
It knocks K into the ground. He struggles to get up.
Moebius K
I...can't heal...!
Lanz & Sena's Ouroboros lands right on top of K and pins him to the ground.
Lanz
Now ain't that a snuffin' shame?!
Go now! Do it!!!
Go now! Do it!!!
Noah and Mio have Interlinked, and jump high into the air towards the Flame Clock.
Noah
Mio!
Mio
Yeah!
They strike with the Ouroboros's blade. It clatters off without scratching the Flame Clock.
Noah
Huh?! What the?! Did that not do it?!
Mio
How is it so strong?!
The other two jump up.
Lanz
Then...we'll try!
Their combined strike is similarly unsuccessful.
Taion
No use?
Lanz
Bloody embers...
K cackles as the three Ouroboros land.
Moebius K
Oh, the futility!
The Flame Clock...is life itself.
One might say, a coalescence of the will to live.
I very much doubt it's going to break THAT easily now, is it?
The Flame Clock...is life itself.
One might say, a coalescence of the will to live.
I very much doubt it's going to break THAT easily now, is it?
Noah
Sparks... We almost had it, too...
K begins to heal from the Flame Clock again, his eyes uncharacteristically open.
Moebius K
Hah. A fool's errand indeed.
But you know, I appreciate what you've done.
For bringing your lovely selves...SO. CLOSE. UP.
Because now I can look upon you in all your radiance.
But you know, I appreciate what you've done.
For bringing your lovely selves...SO. CLOSE. UP.
Because now I can look upon you in all your radiance.
K rises back up to where the Ferronis's main cannon is once again charging. Noah angrily grunts.
Manana
(cowering)
(cowering)
M-meeeeh...
Lightning...s-so frightening!
Lightning...s-so frightening!
Riku
(as calmly as possible)
(as calmly as possible)
I-it all be OK...
Noah and friends will set things right!
Noah and friends will set things right!
Noah remembers back to when Riku gave him Lucky Seven.
Riku
Even armor of Ferronis get sliced to itsy bits!
Noah looks at his Ouroboros's weapon.
Noah
(to himself)
(to himself)
If it can really take a Ferronis clean out...
then maybe...!
then maybe...!
Noah
Mio! Try again!
Cancel the Interlink after we jump!
Cancel the Interlink after we jump!
They talk to one another in the Interlink's sea of memories.
Mio
What's the plan?
Noah
Looks like the time's come!
Mio
(not getting it)
(not getting it)
What are you talking about...?
Mio
(going with it anyway)
(going with it anyway)
Fine then. Ready when you are!
Lanz
Noah! What are you-
Noah & Mio jump up and footstool off K in midair. They cancel their Interlink as they near the Flame Clock.
Moebius K
(confused, slightly worried)
(confused, slightly worried)
Y-your Interlink...
But why?
But why?
Noah grabs his sword and withdraws Lucky Seven from its sheath. The sheath reforms around his left hand as a gauntlet, and he grabs Mio's hand with it. He cleaves through the Flame Clock with Lucky Seven as the two fall, splitting it from top to bottom in a red line that explodes with red motes. Motes are showered across the landscape.
Moebius K
(aghast)
(aghast)
Im...impossible!
The Flame Clocks cannot be broken!
What is this?!
Who are these people?!
The Flame Clock's power, utterly lost...
No...
But hoooow?!
The Flame Clocks cannot be broken!
What is this?!
Who are these people?!
The Flame Clock's power, utterly lost...
No...
But hoooow?!
The Ferronis and K both fall to the ground. Lanz & Sena's Ouroboros carries Noah and Mio safely down.
Noah
How's Ethel?
Everyone OK?
Everyone OK?
Eunie and Taion have cancelled their Interlink.
Eunie
She's gonna be fine.
Taion
Seems she only lost consciousness.
Lanz and Sena have also cancelled their Interlink. Noah focuses on K.
Noah
Right... That's good.
Which leaves...
Which leaves...
K struggles to stand as the party advance and draw their Blades.
Eunie
(angrily)
(angrily)
Someone who deserves a real thrashin'!
Lanz
Playing with our lives like they're nothing... You're dead meat!
Ceasefire
K has been defeated. Purple motes and black fog are leaking from his core.
Moebius K
(anguished)
(anguished)
No... Nooooo!
But...why?!
How could I have failed?!
I just...wanted to play around a little more!
Nooo...
I don't want to diiiie!!!
But...why?!
How could I have failed?!
I just...wanted to play around a little more!
Nooo...
I don't want to diiiie!!!
He falls onto his back, motionless. Noah's face softens. K's body reverts back to its human form.
Eunie
(no sympathy)
(no sympathy)
Just playin' around, was he? Let's take a look at this ugly mudder's face.
Lanz
Yeah.
Lanz gets close and fiddles with his helmet.
Lanz
Stuck tight. How d'you get this thing off?
Ah!
Ah!
With a click, K's helmet dissipates. His face, frozen in the fear of death, is that of a middle-aged man with wrinkled skin.
Lanz
(gasp) This guy...
Taion
He's so different from us... Is this what Consuls look like?
Eunie
All wrinkled...
Just like Guernica. Is this what aging's like?
Just like Guernica. Is this what aging's like?
Noah
I dunno...
A small distance away, Ethel gets to her feet, groaning. The others take notice.
Ethel
Ah... It's you...
The scene fades to black, then back in to Noah visibly explaining the situation.
Ethel
I see...
I'm so sorry.
All I remember is that I was fighting against some abhorrent creatures...
And you tell me it was you...
I'm so sorry.
All I remember is that I was fighting against some abhorrent creatures...
And you tell me it was you...
She looks over to where K lies. Blue motes are rising off his body.
Ethel
So this is the Consul...
This is how he really looks.
This is how he really looks.
K evaporates into blue motes.
Eunie
He's fading... Just like during a Homecoming...
One mote brushes against Noah's cheek, and he suddenly remembers his last words.
K
(in Noah's head)
(in Noah's head)
(Nooo...)
(I don't want to diiiie!!!)
(I don't want to diiiie!!!)
Noah looks up to the rising motes, then pulls out his flute and raises it to his lips. Lanz interrupts before he can start playing.
Lanz
Nope, no way. You're not sending him on. You realize how messed up that is?
Noah
(slightly surprised)
(slightly surprised)
Huh? You think so?
Lanz
How do you not... Think about the things this guy did!
Taion
He tried to kill us all, and rob the soldiers of their remaining life!
Noah
(without any tone of disagreement)
(without any tone of disagreement)
You're right. Both of you are right.
And Mio?
And Mio?
Mio
(hesitatingly)
(hesitatingly)
Honestly...
I'm not...sure I would.
I'm not...sure I would.
Noah
(pensively)
(pensively)
OK...
Noah looks up to the motes again, then puts the flute back to his lips.
Lanz
(are you serious dude)
(are you serious dude)
Oh, well just do it anyway!
Noah
Just now... I felt his essence... brush past me.
It felt just the same as ours.
So...I feel I have to do this, y'know?
It felt just the same as ours.
So...I feel I have to do this, y'know?
Mio exhales, remembering the words of her brown-haired off-seeing partner.
Unknown girl
Mio... Have you ever touched a mote of light from a Kevesi?
In the flashback, Mio shakes her head. The girl looks at her own hand.
Unknown girl
They're the same as ours.
On the other side, the people live hoping the same things as us.
On the other side, the people live hoping the same things as us.
In the present, Mio looks at Noah and takes out her own flute. The two begin to play, and motes from K's remains spiral into the sky.
Taion
(sigh)
(sigh)
Well he's started now.
Lanz
Sometimes...he's just...too kind.
Sena
That or he just loves his job.
Manana
He too "by the book"!
Eunie
An airhead - that's what he is.
Don't think he's thinkin' about it too deeply.
Don't think he's thinkin' about it too deeply.
Lanz
Just doing it because it's part of his nature, eh?
Mmm... Weirdo.
Mmm... Weirdo.
Taion
I concur.
Sena
Mimi...
The two stop before the end of the piece and put their flutes away.
Noah
Sorry... You didn't have to help.
Mio
(content)
(content)
It's fine. It's our duty.
Noah's face remains concerned.
Noah
I'm worried...I didn't play well.
Mio
But why?
You did it expertly, just like last time.
You did it expertly, just like last time.
The camera focuses on Noah's trembling hand.
Noah
I still...can't stop shaking.
Mio
(softly)
(softly)
Because of the Flame Clock?
Noah
Yeah...
I was...terrified.
I was...terrified.
Mio
(satisfied)
(satisfied)
Still... All thanks to your decision, we're alive.
You're really...something.
You're really...something.
Noah
It was...a team effort.
Noah turns to look at the others, and smiles.
In time, the Colony 4 soldiers rouse themselves, including Bolearis. He notices Ethel with the party.
In time, the Colony 4 soldiers rouse themselves, including Bolearis. He notices Ethel with the party.
Bolearis
(in unison) Commander![1]
He runs over with the nearby troops, then suddenly notices the Agnian company.
Bolearis
You're Agnus!
Bolearis and the troops draw their Blades. The Agnians prepare for trouble.
Ethel
(ordering)
(ordering)
Lower your weapons, Bolearis!
Bolearis
Come again?
Ethel
I'll explain everything to you later.
Please, Bolearis.
Please, Bolearis.
Bolearis
(unsure)
(unsure)
Uh, sure...
They sheathe their Blades.
Later, Ethel checks her Iris in the Ferronis's command room, with the party. The lieutenants are checking too. Ethel sees no weapon icons over the party's heads.
Later, Ethel checks her Iris in the Ferronis's command room, with the party. The lieutenants are checking too. Ethel sees no weapon icons over the party's heads.
Ethel
Then it seems...
the Flame Clock is indeed gone, as you say...
And yet...
I'm seeing nothing of these symbols you speak of.
It seems evident you possess something...that we do not have.
the Flame Clock is indeed gone, as you say...
And yet...
I'm seeing nothing of these symbols you speak of.
It seems evident you possess something...that we do not have.
Noah
I see...
Sorry. For getting you involved.
Sorry. For getting you involved.
Ethel
No need to apologize.
Exceptional as this is,
I consider it a blessing to be freed from constant battle.
Exceptional as this is,
I consider it a blessing to be freed from constant battle.
Noah
Glad to hear you say that. I was pretty worried.
Mio
Are you sure...it's OK for us to be hanging around here?
Ethel
My troops are under strict orders.
It's true you three are affiliated with Agnus...
but we also owe you our lives.
We should count our blessings, no?
It's true you three are affiliated with Agnus...
but we also owe you our lives.
We should count our blessings, no?
Later, as the party leaves the Ferronis, the Colony 4 soldiers watch them wordlessly.
Eunie
(looking around)
(looking around)
This feels awkward...
Noah
(reassuring)
(reassuring)
We can stick it out.
Mio
Sorry.
This is kind of our fault.
This is kind of our fault.
Noah
Don't worry about it. You heard Ethel, right?
Mio
Mm...
The Queen's Edict
In their assigned tent, the party have circled around. Taion is standing in thought.
Taion
The Consul we fought back there...
Eunie
Uh-huh?
Taion
Oddly...he was strikingly similar to our own Consul.
Lanz
Both sides are gonna have Consuls. Why's that odd?
Taion
More accurately, not just similar...
They're the same.
They're the same.
Noah
They're the same...? Are they really?
Mio and Sena nod.
Taion
Our colonies regard each other as enemies.
But...if the Consuls giving the orders are the same, it means...
But...if the Consuls giving the orders are the same, it means...
Lanz
It means...?
Taion
Hmmm...
Lanz
(impatiently)
(impatiently)
Come on... Just spit it out, man!
Eunie
Are Consuls such a big deal?
I thought they were everywhere, like your run-of-the-mill Nopon.
I thought they were everywhere, like your run-of-the-mill Nopon.
Riku and Manana jump and turn to Eunie, ruffled.
Riku
Riku refuse to let remark of Eunie slide.
Manana
Got that right!
Nopon are rare species world cannot live without! Protect at all cost!
Nopon are rare species world cannot live without! Protect at all cost!
Sena
Uhh, leaving Nopon out of this...
What's this mean? That these guys are mega suspicious?
What's this mean? That these guys are mega suspicious?
Taion
Yes. I suspect they may be more deeply involved than we thought.
Eunie
Involved how, though? With what?
Taion
With the reason why we fight... With deciding our fate.
Mio
(to herself)
(to herself)
Our fate...
The party takes a moment to think.
Eunie
And the Queens? You think...they're in cahoots?
Taion
What can you tell us about your Queen?
Lanz
I think we've only laid eyes on her once.
Right?
Right?
Noah
Yeah, at the Homecoming, I think.
She had long, silver hair...
She had long, silver hair...
Eunie
(appreciatively)
(appreciatively)
Yup, real dignified. Proper pretty wings too.
Mio
Wings? Like yours, Eunie?
Eunie
Sort of... But they were much more of a shining white.
Eunie tugs on the end of her right wing.
Sena
Well, as for *our* Queen...
She was really elegant...
Refined and graceful.
And her ears... They were super long!
She was really elegant...
Refined and graceful.
And her ears... They were super long!
Sena gets behind Mio and mimes two ears behind her head, in the same position but about three times as long.
Sena
Up to here!
Eunie
Hmm...
Guess that means our Queens are different folks all right.
Guess that means our Queens are different folks all right.
Lanz
The Consuls are...kinda like the Queen's servants, right?
Taion
The Castle's.
Their role...is to convey the Queen's directives to the colonies, along with handling admin and decision-making.
Their role...is to convey the Queen's directives to the colonies, along with handling admin and decision-making.
Eunie
So, what? If we explain the deal to the Queen, you think she might actually get the picture, yeah?
Lanz
Pretty much.
Taion
I don't recommend getting your hopes up.
Lanz
Oh yeah?
Taion
The Queens sit at the very pinnacle of the hierarchy.
Lanz
So you think they won't even give us the time of day, huh?
Taion
I'm *saying* they might be the same as the Consuls: our enemy.
Eunie
What?
The others take a moment to process this.
Mio
Also... Somehow, that Consul... He became Moebius.
Noah
(slowly)
(slowly)
Or maybe...
Moebius...*is* the Consuls.
Moebius...*is* the Consuls.
Taion nods.
Taion
The situation's already dire enough. It'd be best to temper our expectations.
Queen of Keves
(considering)
(considering)
Is that so?
Colony 4...
Colony 4...
The Consul nods. The Queen raises and points her staff.
Queen of Keves
Henceforth...all orders are rescinded. Eliminate Ouroboros at all cost!
Make this known throughout the colonies!
Make this known throughout the colonies!
In Agnus Castle, a Consul — possibly the same one — reports to the Queen of Agnus. She is similarly masked.
Queen of Agnus
Ouroboros...has no place in this world.
Their existence...
must be erased without a trace!
Their existence...
must be erased without a trace!
We have endured the fierce fighting at Colony 4, and learned that the Consuls and Moebius are one and the same.
Truths we took for granted continue to crumble at our feet...
We have spent so long blindly walking the path set before us, without question.
But we are more curious now.
Of our future selves...
Of our purpose...
Notes
- ↑ Despite the bracketed text, only Bolearis says this line.